A "big kid" is generally considered to be any child between the ages of five and eight years. During this period of a child’s life, they will be developing new skill sets ranging from problem solving and social skills to academic and motor skills. Choosing the right toys for your big kid will help them develop into a well-rounded child.[1]

Steps

Method1

Transitioning to New Toys

1

Gradually get rid of old toys. When you decide to transition your child to big kid toys, you should do so gradually. Do not abruptly dispose of toys from the earlier phases of your child’s life. Instead, gradually begin to get rid of toys your child no longer plays with by donating or selling them.[2]

Try beginning by purging toys that are broken or that your child no longer uses.

2

Introduce new toys as your budget allows. Set a budget for big kid toys. Once you decide how much you can spend on new toys, slowly introduce the new toys to your child. For example, if you can spend twenty dollars per month on big kid toys, make a special date each month to allow your child to choose a new toy.[3]

3

Repurpose old toys. You don’t have to throw away all of your child’s old toys when they become a “big kid.” Instead, try repurposing them to support your child’s new stage of development. For example, a big kid can combine all their old blocks and use them in a larger engineering and construction project.

4

Opt for fewer toys. Having fewer toys around can positively benefit your child’s development as they grow up. Fewer toys can help your child learn to be more creative, develop a longer attention span, and establish better social skills. Try replacing toys with activities and experiences, like taking dance lessons or visiting the zoo.[4]

5

Be patient. Sometimes it is tough for children to transition to big kid toys, and many will want to hang on to their old toys. Do not force your child to get rid of old toys if you encounter resistance. Instead, try rewarding the child with an experience, activity, or new big kid toy when they let go of an old one.

Method2

Choosing Toys for Big Kids

1

Choose toys that educate while entertaining. Children in early elementary school are in the process of developing all kinds of new skills, ranging from reading and writing to art and math. Choose toys that serve an educational purpose while also entertaining the child.[5]

Consider a musical instrument. Learning to play an instrument will help your big kid develop fine motor skills, build listening skills, and increase their attention span. Try letting your child learn to play the piano, guitar, recorder, or drums.[6]

3

Try fun fitness toys. Fitness toys can help children gain self-confidence and develop social skills while getting exercise. For example, by jumping rope with friends, the child will learn to take turns, solve problems, and get along with others. Fitness toys can also help your child develop fine and gross motor skills.[7]

Encourage the child to play with toys like jump ropes, beanbags, and balls.

4

Consider a construction set. Complex construction sets and accessories allow children to express their creativity while helping them develop fine motor skills. It is important to remember that construction sets are equally important for girls and boys, and there are many options out there made specifically for girls.[8]

5

Select science toys. Big kids are the perfect age to begin exploring the wonderful world of science, and toys are a great entry point. Science-centered toys can help your child develop problem-solving skills while expanding their imagination. These toys will also help your child develop science and math skills.[9]

Try toys like binoculars, a telescope, or an age-appropriate chemistry set.

6

Solve a puzzle. Your big kid is now ready for complex puzzles that combine problem solving, engineering, and art. Try putting together a jigsaw puzzle with your big kid. You can also opt for other types of puzzle-solving toys, like those that focus on pattern recognition or mazes.[10]

7

Choose digital toys wisely. Some big kids are going to ask for digital toys like a video game console or a tablet, as well as the associated software and games. Always read reviews of digital toys before purchasing and make sure they are made specifically for your child's age range.

Always explore the games and toys yourself before handing them over to your child.

Make sure you supervise the child while they play.

Limit your child's screen time to no more than one hour per day with digital toys.